A Letter from Clare

Dear Friends,

The outdoors has always been a huge part of who I am. From working as an outdoor educator and leading wilderness expeditions to exploring remote corners of Australia, I've always found a sense of freedom, happiness and belonging in nature.

When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, life took an unexpected turn. As my mobility changed, so did my ability to explore the places I loved. But while the way I experienced the outdoors had changed, my passion for adventure never faded.

In 2026, with the support of an incredible team, I set out to become the first person to complete Western Australia's 1,000km Munda Biddi Trail using an off-road wheelchair. What followed was an unforgettable adventure through rugged bushland, steep hills, unpredictable weather and plenty of unexpected challenges.

It wasn't always easy, and I certainly couldn't have done it alone. But together, we made it to the finish line.

Wheelchair Meets Wilderness was never just about completing a trail. It was about challenging perceptions of disability, finding new ways to experience the outdoors and showing that adventure doesn't have to end when life takes a different path.

Along the way, I've also been working towards another ambitious goal: raising $100,000 for multiple sclerosis research. My hope is that this journey will not only inspire others but also contribute to a future where people living with MS have more possibilities.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this adventure, whether through donations, encouragement, sponsorship or simply following along. You've helped make something extraordinary possible.

The adventure may have reached the finish line, but the story is far from over.

With heartfelt thanks,

Clare

Read the whole story from idea to trail and beyond.

The Team Behind the Adventure

Clare was joined on the trail by her husband, Jay, who has 35 years of professional outdoor experience, including scuba diving instruction, mountain guiding, and leading month-long international trips with high school students.

Clare’s mum, Sue, and dad, Frank—an ex-teacher and ex-nurse, respectively—who have completed the Overland Track in Tasmania more than 20 times combined, hiked the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, and undertaken numerous multi-day hikes in Australia, came along as road support.

Clare and Jay’s son, Elliot, came along as the chief cheerleader.

Clare will also be joined by documentary filmmaker Trent Houssenloge from Cowboy Hat Films, who will be capturing the journey and bringing the story of the ride to life on screen. His partner Freda came along as a support worker.

Long time friend Ross Richards, mountain biker and outdoor educator, came along and spent his days on the trail.

Support MS Research

The adventure may be over, but the mission continues!

Through Wheelchair Meets Wilderness, I'm working towards raising $100,000 for multiple sclerosis research, helping support a future with better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer. Thank you for being part of the journey and helping make a difference.